Are you ready to take the wheel of your Tesla and truly master its controls? Shifting gears in a Tesla isn't like your grandma's old clunker; it's a seamless, intuitive experience that's part of what makes driving a Tesla so unique. Let's dive in and get you comfortable with this essential aspect of your electric vehicle!
Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Gear Selector ️
First things first, let's locate the gear selector. Unlike traditional cars with a prominent gear stick between the seats, Tesla employs a more minimalist approach.
Where is it?
In most Tesla models (Model S, 3, X, Y), you'll find the gear selector on the right side of the steering column. It looks like a stalk, similar to a turn signal stalk in other cars, but it's specifically designed for gear selection. It's often referred to as the "drive stalk."
A Closer Look at the Stalk
The stalk is typically smooth and sleek, blending in with the car's interior design.
You'll notice it has a few distinct positions or actions, which we'll explore in the next steps.
Don't confuse it with the left stalk, which is for your turn signals and wipers!
Step 2: Engaging Drive (D) ➡️
Ready to roll? Engaging drive is incredibly simple.
Pushing Down for Drive
To put your Tesla into Drive (D), simply push the gear selector stalk all the way down and release it. You'll feel a slight click, and the gear indicator on your touchscreen display will change to "D."
Visual Confirmation
Keep an eye on your large central touchscreen. This is your command center! When you've successfully engaged Drive, you'll see a prominent "D" (or an icon representing Drive) appear. This visual feedback is crucial for confirming your gear selection.
Moving Forward
Once "D" is displayed, you're ready to gently press the accelerator pedal. Your Tesla will smoothly and silently begin to move forward. Remember, Teslas have incredible torque, so even a light touch on the accelerator will get you going!
Step 3: Engaging Reverse (R) ⬅️
Backing up in a Tesla is just as easy as going forward, with the added benefit of excellent camera views.
Pushing Up for Reverse
To put your Tesla into Reverse (R), push the gear selector stalk all the way up and release it. Again, you'll feel that satisfying click.
Camera View Activation
One of the coolest features of engaging Reverse in a Tesla is the automatic activation of the rearview camera and side cameras on your touchscreen. This provides a wide and clear view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering much safer.
Backing Up
With "R" displayed and the camera views active, gently press the accelerator pedal to move backward. Be mindful of your surroundings and use your mirrors in conjunction with the camera feeds.
Step 4: Engaging Park (P) ️
Parking your Tesla is designed for convenience and security.
Pressing the Button for Park
To put your Tesla into Park (P), you'll notice a button on the end of the gear selector stalk. Simply press this button firmly.
Automatic Parking Brake
When you engage Park, your Tesla automatically activates the electronic parking brake. This ensures your vehicle is securely held in place, especially on inclines. You'll see the "P" indicator illuminate on your touchscreen.
When to Use Park
Always engage Park when you are finished driving and are exiting the vehicle.
Use Park when you are temporarily stopping and need the vehicle to be stationary, like waiting for someone.
Never leave the car in Neutral (N) when unattended, as it can roll.
Step 5: Engaging Neutral (N) ➖
Neutral is used less frequently in a Tesla compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, but it's important to know how to access it.
Half-Push for Neutral
To put your Tesla into Neutral (N), you need to perform a half-push on the gear selector stalk.
From Drive (D), push the stalk halfway up and hold it briefly.
From Reverse (R), push the stalk halfway down and hold it briefly.
When to Use Neutral
Car Washes: This is the most common scenario for using Neutral. If you're going through an automated car wash, you'll be instructed to put your car in Neutral.
Towing: If your Tesla needs to be flat-bedded or towed for any reason, Neutral is required.
Brief Stops (with caution): You can briefly put the car in Neutral for very short, level stops, but it's generally safer and recommended to use Park. Remember, in Neutral, the car can roll if it's not on a perfectly flat surface.
Step 6: Autopark and Summon (Advanced Features)
While not directly "switching gears" in the traditional sense, Tesla's Autopark and Summon features demonstrate the vehicle's advanced capabilities in managing its own movement. These features essentially automate the process of engaging Drive, Reverse, and Park.
Autopark
When driving slowly in a parking area, your Tesla's sensors may detect a suitable parking space.
The touchscreen will display an "Autopark" option.
If you activate it, your Tesla will automatically steer, accelerate, and brake, performing the parking maneuver for you. It will select Drive and Reverse as needed.
Summon
Summon allows your Tesla to move a short distance autonomously in or out of a tight parking spot, or even across a parking lot (with Enhanced Summon/Full Self-Driving Capability).
You control Summon via the Tesla app on your phone.
When using Summon, your car will automatically engage Drive or Reverse as required to execute the maneuver.
Mastering the Flow: Tips for Seamless Gear Changes
Smooth and Deliberate Movements: While the gear selector is intuitive, avoid jerky movements. A smooth, deliberate push or pull will ensure accurate selection.
Always Confirm on Screen: Make it a habit to glance at the touchscreen to confirm your gear selection. This is your primary visual cue.
Foot on the Brake: As with any car, it's always good practice to have your foot gently on the brake pedal when shifting between Drive, Reverse, and Park, especially when stationary.
Listen for the Click: The subtle click you hear when engaging a gear confirms the physical action of the stalk.
Practice in a Safe Area: If you're new to Tesla, spend some time in a quiet, open area practicing these gear changes until they become second nature.
You've now got a comprehensive understanding of how to switch gears in your Tesla! Enjoy the smooth, silent, and incredibly responsive driving experience.
How to Switch Gears in Tesla: FAQ
How to put Tesla in Drive?
Push the gear selector stalk on the right side of the steering column all the way down and release.
How to put Tesla in Reverse?
Push the gear selector stalk on the right side of the steering column all the way up and release.
How to put Tesla in Park?
Press the button on the end of the gear selector stalk.
How to put Tesla in Neutral?
From Drive, push the stalk halfway up and hold briefly. From Reverse, push the stalk halfway down and hold briefly.
How to use Autopark in Tesla?
When driving slowly and a suitable parking spot is detected, an "Autopark" option will appear on the touchscreen; tap it to activate.
How to use Summon in Tesla?
Access the Summon feature through your Tesla mobile app; select the direction you want your car to move, and it will autonomously drive there.
How to shift gears while moving in Tesla?
You typically won't "shift gears" while moving in a Tesla in the traditional sense. You stay in Drive (D) for all forward motion. If you need to reverse, you must be stationary or moving very slowly to shift into Reverse (R).
How to troubleshoot if Tesla won't shift gears?
First, ensure your foot is on the brake. If the issue persists, check for any alerts on your touchscreen. If there are no obvious issues, try a soft reset of the touchscreen (holding both scroll wheels on the steering wheel). If problems continue, contact Tesla Service.
How to engage the parking brake in a Tesla?
Engaging Park (P) by pressing the button on the end of the stalk automatically engages the electronic parking brake.
How to override automatic gear selection in Tesla?
In normal driving, you don't override the automatic gear selection as the car primarily operates in Drive. For Autopark or Summon, you can always take over control by pressing the brake or steering, which will disengage the feature.
